Ep. 56 - Sermon - 2 Timothy 2:1-13 I'm in the Lord's Army

We need to make a mental shift about the times we live in. We are acting as if we live in times of peace even though we live in a season of war. Until the last day comes, we are part of a war waging all around us, even if it is largely unseen by our physical eyes. Angels and demons, the devil and God battle for our souls. Thankfully, Jesus, the commander of the heavenly forces and the King of humanity came to this earth to win the war over evil once and for all. All who side with him will ultimately enjoy eternal victory in the halls of heaven. However, today our fight is not over. Salvation has been accomplished, but the work of God is ongoing in our world and in the hearts of humanity. We need to be prepared for the daily struggles and attacks against our soul. Others are trapped behind enemy lines and have yet to hear and believe that Jesus' side is the winning side. We need to be ready, prepared, and mentally focused to serve our commander and to sacrifice our lives for the souls still lost. We are in the Lord's army, my friends. Form up and move out! Sermon Text - 2 Timothy 2:1-13 You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. 3 Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer. 5 Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules. 6 The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. 7 Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this. 8 Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, 9 for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God’s word is not chained. 10 Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory. 11 Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with him,    we will also live with him;12 if we endure,    we will also reign with him.If we disown him,    he will also disown us;13 if we are faithless,    he remains faithful,    for he cannot disown himself.